Chronic pain and depression live with me not the other way around!
"God uses pain and tribulation to make things right in our lives" courtesy of The African American Devotional Bible King James Version
You'll find no whining and complaining here! Love your life - it's a gift! **Tag Free Blog**

Thursday, July 18, 2013

Disclosure: I was not financially compensated for this post. I received a sample of the products for review purposes. The opinions are my own, based on my personal experience with the products.

I am so thrilled to have this opportunity to review these Neutrogena sunscreen products. As many of you know, my family and I live in hot Las Vegas. This summer we've been experiencing brutal temperatures over 110 degrees.

Last year, I suffered from a sunburn, on my legs, while lounging, at the pool, after a swim. It was not only extremely painful but also a learning experience for this brown woman. It was a wake up call. People of color can and do get sunburned. And worst, we can develop skin cancer. So, it's very important that we learn how to protect ourselves from the deadly UVB rays.

Before I head to the pool, this summer, I make sure to generously apply Neutrogena Beach Defense Sunscreen SPF 30 to my body, including chest area, hands and feet. (15 minutes before going out) Then I apply the Neutrogena Clear Face Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 55 on my face and ears.

“Sunscreen is important for everyone – from the lightest skin tones to the darkest. Often people of color feel that their darker complexion protects them from the harmful rays, and while we may not burn as quickly as other ethnic groups, we can still develop skin cancer.

Not all sunscreens labeled ‘broad-spectrum’ are created equal. I recommend Neutrogena Ultra Sheer sunscreens, because it does not leave a white appearance which can occur in ethnic skin when applying sunscreens.”
- Howard L. Brooks, MD, Medical Director, SKIN: Cosmetic Dermatology Center of Georgetown

Physicians and patients who are wary of addiction to pain medication and opioids may soon have a healthier and more natural alternative. A Duke University study revealed that a derivative of DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), a main ingredient of over-the-counter fish oil supplements, can sooth and prevent neuropathic pain caused by injuries to the sensory system. The results appear online in the Annals of Neurology.

The research focused on a compound called neuroprotectin D1=protectin D1 (NPD1=PD1), a bioactive lipid produced by cells in response to external stimuli. NPD1=PD1 is present in human white blood cells, and was first identified based on its ability to resolve abdominal and brain inflammation.

"These compounds are derived from omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil, but are 1,000 times more potent than their precursors in reducing inflammation," said Ru-Rong Ji, professor of anesthesiology and neurobiology at Duke University Medical Center and principal investigator of the study.

Wednesday, July 17, 2013

My Shade of Brown, is a monthly beauty subscription service with products geared towards women of color. The monthly subscription is only $10 so for the opportunity to 'try out' products, it's very affordable.

So far, I've been really enjoying the Balanced Beauty skin care samples. The Replenish Moisture Cream is my favorite. I put very little on my face, before bed and wake up to less dry skin.

I've attended a Foster Grant Twitter Party where they discussed the importance of protecting your eyes from the UV rays. The funny thing is that I've heard this message before but it wasn't until that party did I feel it was my mission to pick up a pair of sunglasses.

After deciding on a pair, at Target, cutting the tags off, and placing them on my face, I have to admit I don't know why I waited so long.

My eyes are no longer burning from the brutal Las Vegas sun and wind exposure. Another plus: No more squinting

Tuesday, July 16, 2013

In April, I hired Leslie Gail, Health & Wellness Coach, to assist me with some nutritional concerns. I've been working on eating more whole foods, less processed for more than a year but had hit a plateau. Leslie suggested several things, including that I try a sugar and dairy elimination, separately, for a week.

I decided to do the sugar elimination first because I don't consume much added sugar. (ex: sodas, sugar in coffee or tea) This task was much more difficult than I thought. I actually found myself wanting to have some sugar each day. I actually succumbed to Apple Rolls.

The following week, I started my dairy elimination. That meant no cream in my morning coffee, no butter on the toast. Yuck! But, I did a bit better on avoiding dairy.

Final results: I did feel a little better during the dairy elimination. I realized that I should be more aware of what I'm consuming so I do keep a food diary. Not for beating myself up but to see how certain foods affect my chronic pain. I really appreciate Leslie's suggestions and goal setting tips. If you're interesting in Leslie's services, please stop by her website.